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Vulvar Pain

Vulvar pain is medically referred to as vulvodynia. This condition refers to pain or discomfort when pressure is applied to the area surrounding the entrance to the vagina. The pain can occur when putting in a tampon or when having sex (dyspareunia).

  1. Identification

    • Symptoms of vulvodynia include rawness in the female genitalia, stinging, irritation and burning. The pain may be intermittent or constant.

    Causes

    • Vulvar pain can be the result of spasms in the muscles that support a woman's pelvic organs or because of an injury or irritation to the nerves in that area. A yeast-like infection can cause pain, as can extreme levels of oxalate crystals in the urine. These crystals are found in plants such as spinach. The crystals can get stuck in vulvar tissue, explains Estronaut.com.

    Treatment

    • Women suffering from this condition may be given anticonvulsants, topical corticosteroids, antidepressants, interferon or nerve blocks, or they may be instructed to change their diet. If none of this works, laser or scalpel surgery is an option. If opting for the scalpel procedure, the sensitive areas around the opening of the vagina are excised, and healthy skin is pulled over the excised area. Laser surgery involves the same process except a laser is used instead of a scalpel.

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